You said famous people looked tired, and you were right.
Instead, I said the only thing I could say without ending whatever this was before it had properly begun.
“Don’t Google me.”
Ellie’s smile faded.
Not entirely.
Just enough.
“Annie.”
“I know that sounds strange.”
“It sounds like the sort of sentence that comes with either a very good story or a basement full of unusual jars.”
“No jars.”
“Good. That helps.”
“I’m serious.”
“So am I. Jars can be a warning sign.”
Despite myself, I laughed.
Then Ellie’s expression softened.
“Are you safe?”
The question caught me off guard.
Not who are you?
Not what are you hiding?
Just are you safe?
“Yes.”
“Are you running from someone?”
“No.”
“Are you asking because your family owns a chain of haunted doll museums?”
“No.”
“Taxidermy podcast?”
“No.”
“Competitive hot-dog controversy?”
“Surprisingly, no.”
“Then why?”
